"Every film has its own unique vibe." – Pragya Jaiswal

Pragya Jaiswal, the talented actress who will soon be seen in Akshay Kumar’s film Khel Khel Mein, is currently in the spotlight for her upcoming films NBK 109 and Daku Maharaj. In an exclusive interview with Mayapuri Magazine journalist Shilpa Patil, Pragya shared her thoughts on her role in NBK 109, the growing hype around the film, and her experience working again with Nandamuri Balakrishna.

• First of all, congratulations on NBK 109! What would you like to say about your excitement for the film?

Thank you so much! I’m really excited about this film. 2024 is ending on such a positive note for me. I’ve just completed my first Hindi film Khel Khel Mein, which has already been released. It received so much love in theatres, and now it's doing great on Netflix as well. So, I feel like 2024 is ending on a high. Now, my second film Daku Maharaj and NBK 109 is coming up. This is especially exciting because it’s my second film with Balakrishna sir. Our first film together was a huge success, so I hope this one also gets the same kind of love and appreciation from the audience. I’m hopeful that this film will also be well received by everyone.

• Tell us a little more about NBK 109 and what makes it special for the audience?

NBK 109 is a commercial masala film, but it also has a very strong and meaningful subject. My character is very interesting, unique, and powerful. It’s a de-glam role, completely performance-driven, which was a challenge for me because I’ve never played a character like this before. It’s not an easy role, and I’m hoping the audience will appreciate me in this new avatar. It’s a bit different from what they might have seen me do before.

• This is your second time working with Nandamuri Balakrishna. What has your experience been like working with him again?

 It’s such a great opportunity for me to work with Balakrishna sir again. I’m very grateful for this chance. He’s a wonderful person—so respectful and full of energy. Working with him is always a learning experience because he brings so much positivity to the set. Every day, he’s so passionate and dedicated to his work, and seeing that motivates you to give your best as well. His energy on set is infectious, and it inspires you to improve your own performance. I’m really excited that we’re working together again on such an important project.

• Bobby Deol is also playing a negative character in the film. What has been your experience shooting with him?

I haven’t had the chance to shoot with Bobby sir yet because we’re still in the middle of shooting. However, I’ve seen glimpses of his role, and it looks amazing. His character is very powerful, and his look is absolutely mind-blowing. I’m really excited to work with him and see his performance in full swing. I’m sure the audience will love his role in the film.

• There is a lot of hype around NBK 109 even though the film hasn’t been released yet. What do you think is the reason behind this excitement?

Every film has its own vibe, and NBK 109 has had such a positive vibe right from the start. The combination of Balakrishna sir and Bobby Deol has already created a huge buzz. Both of them have their own fan bases, and their collaboration is something the audience has been eagerly waiting for. Also, the film’s subject is very unique and intriguing, which is drawing people in. Bobby Deol plays the antagonist, and he’s in a really great phase right now, which makes his role even more exciting. Plus, the director has delivered a huge hit with Akhanda, so there’s a positive energy surrounding the film. I feel fortunate to be part of this project, and I’m excited to see how the audience responds.

• You mentioned that your character in NBK 109 is different from what you’ve done before. Was it a challenging role for you? What difficulties did you face while playing this character, and how excited are you about it?

Honestly, it was quite a challenging role for me. It’s a de-glam, performance-based character, and there wasn’t much scope for fun or entertainment. The shooting conditions were tough, and there were some really difficult situations to handle. But as an actor, I gave it my 100% every day. This is an intense film, and there was more focus on hard work than enjoyment. It wasn’t a lighthearted role—it required deep emotional investment. But I did enjoy the hard work because it pushed me to give my best. It was a different experience, and I’m proud of the effort I put into it.

• Do you have any other upcoming projects that you would like to share with us?

Yes, I’m working on two more films in the South. One is Daku Maharaj and the other is Tyson Naidu, which is still in the shooting phase. I’m working with Sai Belam Konda Srinivas in Tyson Naidu, with whom I’ve previously worked in Jaya Janaki Nayaka. So, this will be my second collaboration with him. I’m excited for both these films, and I’m hoping they will be successful as well.

• What message would you like to give to your fans and audience?

 I would like to thank all my fans and the audience from the bottom of my heart for all the love and support I’ve received over the years. I’m very grateful for your encouragement. I promise to keep working hard and continue entertaining you with my work. Please keep supporting me, and I’ll keep giving my best. Much love to all of you!

Pragya Jaiswal has made a significant mark in the Telugu film industry, especially after her breakthrough role in the period drama Kanche (2015), which won her the Filmfare Award for Best Female Debut – South. With NBK 109 and her other upcoming projects, Pragya is set to continue captivating audiences with her diverse roles and powerful performances.

by Priyanka Yadav

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